IN THE GARDEN
Whatever the season , a closer look at flowers or catkins will leave us in awe of the mechanisms plants have evolved
hayfever during late winter and spring. Whether animal-pollinated (zoophilous) or wind-pollinated (anemophilous), the process results in seed fertilisation and the continuation of a species. A world of wonder A stroll through any garden, park or neighbourhood will reveal many trees. Those with petalled flowers, like cherries and horse chestnuts, are eye-catching and attractive to both insects and humans alike. Wind-pollinated trees may not have the kerb appeal of their vibrantly coloured counterparts, but close inspection of these reveals variety in colour and size. Whatever the season, a closer look at the flowers or catkins of the myriad trees around us reveals intricate details and will leave us in awe of the mechanisms plants have evolved to maximise the chances of pollination and regeneration.
Sally Petitt is head of horticulture at Cambridge University Botanic Garden
IN FULL BLOOM Trees such as the stunning Chinese handkerchief tree ( Davidia involucrata ) (top) and Prunus ‘Shirofugen’ ( above ) produce dramatic flowers in the spring and summer months
80 MAY 2026 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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